March 3, 2010

Important Clarification Regarding NWHA Shoeing Rules

The National Walking Horse Association would like to clarify how shoes are measured by NWHA DQP’s in the field so that all exhibitors are aware of the official procedure prior to inspection. It is imperative that exhibitors understand that the shoe must measure correctly at any point along the shoe if and when shoes are measured with the DQP’s official NWHA “Go/No Go Tool.”

Exhibitors are strongly urged to become familiar with the current shoeing regulations listed on page 22 of the NWHA rule book. You can view our rule book online at http://www.nwha.com/rulebook/2010NWHARuleBook.pdf

In addition, NWHA “Go/No Go Tools” are available for purchase for $50 each. If you would like to order your own, complete the order form and submit it to the NWHA office. Order forms can be found on the web site at http://www.nwha.com/form/GoNoGoToolOrderForm.pdf

Please remember that all official measurements at the horse shows will be completed with the officially assigned DQP’s “Go/No Go Tool.” Measurements taken in this manner by the official DQP will stand final and no other “Go/No Go Tools” will be used to re-measure.

Any questions can be directed to the NWHA office at (859) 252-6942 or to Dr. Martha Day, Director of DQP’s at 270-618-5721.
 

March 3, 2010

2009 Lifetime Superior Achievement Program Points Posted

The 2009 Lifetime Superior Achievement Program points have been officially posted. You can view the points on the NWHA web site at http://www.nwhapoints.com/LSAPrecap.html 

If you would like to nominate your horse for the LSAP, submit the completed form (http://www.nwha.com/LifetimeForm.pdf) to the NWHA office at 4059 Iron Works Parkway, Suite 4, Lexington, KY, 40511 or fax to (859) 252-0640.
Congratulations and Good Luck in 2010!

In addition to the LSAP High Points, you can view the list of all the 2009 NWHA High Point Winners at http://www.nwha.com/2009NWHAHPWinners.pdf 

February 23, 2010

NEWS RELEASE:

The National Walking Horse Association held its annual Designated Qualified Person training in Goodlettsville, Tennessee on February 20-21, 2010. NWHA had a record attendance of twenty-nine participants at the clinic. Attendees consisted of NWHA DQPs, DQP applicants, NWHA trainers, owners, exhibitors, NWHAs Executive Director, Carrie Mortensen and two Veterinarians representing the State of Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. The training was conducted by NWHAs Director of Designated Qualified Persons and Animal Welfare, Dr. Martha M. Day, Hal Bowden, Past President of NWHA, Jeff Smith, NWHA Designated Qualfied Person and Drs. Jeff Baker and Rick Kirsten, Veterinary Medical Officers from the United States Department of Agriculture. The February 20, 2010 session included classroom instruction on the History of Soring, Anatomy and Physiology, the Horse Protection Act of 1970, NWHA Policies and Procedures for DQPs, Professional Conduct and breakout sessions on DQP scenarios led by licensed NWHA DQPs. The February 21, 2010 session convened at Hal and Martha Bowden's Montgomery Farms and included practical demonstration and instruction on DQP inspection techniques. The group ended the session with a traditional Tennessee Sunday dinner hosted by Hal Bowden at Long Hollow Jamboree restaurant.

The National Walking Horse Association is the world's largest, all sound and all flat shod Horse Industry Organization (HIO). NWHA is the exclusive organizational exhibitor of Walking Horses at the upcoming 2010 World Equestrian Games in Lexington, Kentucky and NWHA is one of only three Horse Industry Organizations approved to perform DQP inspections to determine eligibility of Walking Horses to participate in the Kentucky Breeder's Incentive Fund. NWHAs Designated Qualified Person program accepts applicants on a continuous basis. Interested persons should contact, Dr. Martha M. Day at dayconsulting@gmail.com

February 15, 2010

NWHA Rules Committee Calls for Membership Input

The NWHA Rules Committee has posted a rule change proposal regarding “Amateur, Owner, Trainer” rules and requests that current NWHA members review the information and provide their comments. You can locate the proposal and comment area on the “Members Only” area of our web site. You can find directions for accessing the members only site at http://www.nwha.com/loggingin.html
 

February 11, 2010

NWHA Board Accepts Resignation

The National Walking Horse Association’s Board of Directors regretfully announces the resignation of board member Jimmy Black of Barnwell, SC. The Board wishes to officially thank Jimmy for his hard work and ongoing commitment to the NWHA mission. Jimmy continues his contributions the NWHA community as a licensed judge.

February 9, 2010

Calling New Members!

In order to facilitate growth in new memberships, the NWHA Board of Directors has issued a special discount to first time members. First time NHWA members may choose to purchase a “2-year” Individual or Family Membership at a discounted rate (a $20 savings!). New Individual “2 year” Memberships will be available for a price of $100 and new Family “2 year” Memberships will be available for a price of $200. This special discount is being offered from January 1 to Dec. 31, 2010. You will find this option on the membership application located on our web site at http://www.nwha.com/form/MembershipApp.pdf  New members that joined as of Jan. 1, 2010 can still choose the 2 year discounted membership by calling the NWHA office at (859) 252-6942.
 

February 5, 2010

Important High Point Award Program Change

The National Walking Horse Association is dedicated to providing its membership with the best possible High Point Award Program possible. Many members have expressed their thoughts and suggestions regarding how to improve the current program. Having reviewed the many comments, the Board of Directors has decided to implement a new procedure that will allow the program to be self-supporting. This year, in addition to the traditional ribbons, the Champions and Reserve Champions will automatically receive keeper trophies to commemorate their victories. However, in order for your horse to be eligible for NWHA’s High Point Program, you must nominate your horse annually. A nomination form and fee of $10 per horse is required by the deadline of June 1st in order for your horse to participate in the 2010 program. Points will count retroactively from the beginning of the 2010 show season but all applications and fees must be postmarked &/or received in the NWHA office on or before June 1, 2010. The $10 nomination fee is per horse (not per division). This fee allows your horse to compete for points in any class for which it is shown. Applications can be found on our web site at http://www.nwha.com/nationalshow/2010/HighPointAwardsNominationForm.pdf  Questions regarding the nomination process or the High Point Program can be directed to the NWHA office by calling (859) 252-6942.
 

February 5, 2010

NWHA Rule Books Available

The 2010 NWHA Rule Books are currently available to download FREE OF CHARGE on our web site at http://www.nwha.com/rulebook/2010NWHARuleBook.pdf  Please be sure to review the new rules going into the 2010 show season. Bound, hard copies of the Rule Books are available through the NWHA office for a fee of $20. This price includes both the Standard Rules and the Versatility Rules as well as shipping and handling fees. To order hard copies, you can submit payment to the NWHA office at 4059 Iron Works Parkway, Suite 4, Lexington, KY, 40511. Rule Book order forms can be obtained on the web site at http://www.nwha.com/rulebook/2010RuleBookOderForm.pdf

 

February 2, 2010

NWHA Announces National Show Dates

The 2010 National Walking Horse Association’s National Show will be held during the traditional show dates of September 27 – Oct. 2 at Miller Coliseum in Murfreesboro, TN. The NWHA Board of Directors extensively reviewed numerous options due to the overlapping dates of the National and the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to participate in the demonstrations at the World Equestrian Games. Great care and concern was taken to consider all possible options and the final decision was deemed in the best overall interest of NWHA’s membership and long term mission. The anticipation of great things in 2010 for this organization, our membership, and especially our horses signals our current strength and solid future. We hope you will continue to support these important endeavors with your time, sponsorship, and participation. For more information, visit our web site at www.nwha.com or contact the NWHA office at (859) 252-6942.

January 28, 2010

NWHA Board Accepts Resignation

The National Walking Horse Association’s Board of Directors regretfully announces the resignation of board member Tracy Weier of Mansfield, Ohio. The Board wishes to officially thank Tracy for his hard work and ongoing commitment to the NWHA mission. President Lori Snyder-Lowe has appointed Jason Crawhorn of Franklin, Kentucky to serve out the remainder of the term. Many of you will get a chance to meet Jason at the upcoming “Exhibitors’ Clinics” being held on Feb. 6 in Bowling Green, Kentucky and Feb. 27 in Lexington, Kentucky. For more information regarding the clinics, visit the NWHA web site at http://www.nwha.com/shows.html
 

January 14, 2010

NWHA Selects Representatives for
2010 World Equestrian Games (WEG) Exhibition

The National Walking Horse Association has selected the following equine representatives for the 2010 World Equestrian Games:

Count on Spirit O’Three/ Jennifer Batts – This team represents great winning diversity, including English/Western rail and Dressage. Owners- Gary and Jennifer Batts, Rocky Mount, NC

Master Revelation/Melissa Davidson –Missy and “Petie” have performed many exhibitions for NWHA and have many honors including All Around Versatility Champion. Owners- Rick and Melissa Davidson, Lenoir City, TN

Craving Blue/Elissa Dauberman – They bring with them a long history of winning on the East coast and great team work between horse and rider. Owner Elissa Dauberman – Halifax, PA

Cocoa’s Red Zone/Jason Crawhorn - This rising star in NWHA competition creates a wonderful presentation of form and movement between horse and rider. Owners- Lisa Bowen & Tiffany Crawhorn, Franklin, KY

Allen All Around/Lynn MacGregor – Lynn and Allen create a horse/rider union in motion. They have represented NWHA at many past exhibitions. Owners- Lee & Linda Ritter, Columbia, TN

Cash’s Prime Time/Scot MacGregor – 2009 Plantation Pleasure 2 gait Grand Champion, “Doc” brings flash and power to the arena. Owner- Charles Fulton, Marietta, GA

Rock Solid Rev/Jim Potter – 3 time National Grand Champion Plantation Pleasure horse, Jim and “Rico” bring excitement and presentation to the ring. Owners- Henri and Gary Williams, Grafton, OH

Extra Classic/Mag Ranft – A multi-time Amateur Plantation Pleasure Champion team, Mag and “Classy” bring together the amateur rider/show horse brilliance. Owner- Mag Ranft, Groveport, OH

Vigor’s Dixie Chick/Allison Thorson – A top winning juvenile team with beautiful motion and presentation by both horse and rider. Owner- Allison Thorson, Huron, OH

Hardcastles Prime Sun/Gail Dockery – Presents a championship winning team of the spotted walking horse with form and presentation. Owner- Gail Dockery, Munger, MI

We feel these horses and riders showcase the best of NWHA. They will present an exciting and informative insight into the qualities of our naturally gaited breed. Also, the principles for which our organization, NWHA, was formed and continues to promote. Please join us in supporting and celebrating these outstanding naturally gaited horses to the World Equestrian Games and to the world!

Sponsors and volunteers are needed to support NWHA’s efforts. To learn more about these opportunities please contact the NWHA Office.
 

January 13, 2010

Reminder - Changes in 2010 NWHA Membership/Amateur Cards

The traditional Amateur Cards for showing will be replaced with NWHA Show Cards beginning with the 2010 Show Season.

All exhibitors (excluding Country Pleasure Classes) will be required to have a current NWHA Show Card. NWHA members and exhibitors at NWHA shows must designate their status as Y- Youth, A- Amateur, or O-Open/non-amateur. These cards are available as part of full NWHA membership privileges.

For our non-member exhibitors there are two options available to obtain a Show Card:

• A temporary show pass will be available at a cost of $15. Temporary show passes are valid for a total of 4 consecutive days from date of purchase.
   

• A Season Show Pass will be available at a cost of $40, and is valid for the entire NWHA season which runs from approximately October thru September.

Exhibitors must designate their status as Y-Youth, A-Amateur, or O-Open/non-amateur.

Associate memberships do not carry show card benefits. As of 4-9-09 Board meeting an Associate membership will no longer be available to purchase.

Beginning with the 2010 Show Season, the current amateur card system will be modified to encompass all exhibitors showing at NWHA affiliated shows in classes covered by NWHA rules and included in the current High Point Program (Country Pleasure Excluded). The current amateur cards will be replaced with Membership cards with the member# and a letter which specifies the member’s status as Y- Youth, A-Amateur, or O-Open Exhibitor. Associate memberships will not have a designation as they do not offer show benefits. For those who do not desire to purchase a membership, we will offer 2 options. They may choose to buy a Temporary Show Card for $15 which covers the exhibitor for any and all NWHA events over a 4 day period beginning with the date of purchase, or a Seasonal Show Card for $40 which covers all NWHA affiliated events for the current season. Temporary and Seasonal Card holders must still designate their status as either Youth, Amateur or Open exhibitors, and this information will be maintained in the NWHA office. These cards will be valid options at all shows with the exception of the National which requires exhibitors to have a membership with full privileges to participate.
 

January 13, 2010

NWHA to offer FREE Exhibitors’ Clinics

The National Walking Horse Association will be offering FREE educational clinics where exhibitors can learn more about showing at NWHA sanctioned competitions. Topics at these clinics will include NWHA specific information regarding DQP procedures, shoeing regulations, rules, class definitions, and judging criteria. Scheduled clinicians include Scott MacGregor, Jerrilee Cave, and Martha Day.

The first clinic will be offered Saturday, Feb. 6 at Western Kentucky University in Bowling Green, Kentucky and the second will be offered on Saturday, Feb. 27 at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, Kentucky. Start and end times along with specific locations will be posted shortly our web site at www.nwha.com

For more information regarding the clinics, contact organizer Jason Crawhorn at jason@jtstables.com or the NWHA office at execdir7@nwha.com
 

January 11, 2010

The NWHA Board of Directors has requested the Rules Committee consider a rule change for Amateur Owned and Trained (AOT) criteria. The relevant section in the NWHA rule book is 5.7. Currently the AOT rule allows for the Owner, Trainer and Exhibitor to be different amateurs. It has been suggested that the current rule does not support the original intent of AOT. The Rules Committee has assembled a survey to poll members prior to developing any rule change/modification. The survey will be open for a month or longer if additional data is needed.

You must be a member to vote.

https://cs.createsurvey.com/c/82/7582/survey/9967-FK4X4Q.html

January 8, 2010

*** Attention NWHA Members! ***

The National News Magazine has a January 12th deadline for it's next issue submissions! Due to some technical difficulties we've pushed it back a little bit, but we're looking for advertisers.

Newly available this year are FARM PROFILES. If you own a barn or horse facility that you'd like to advertise this is a great and low priced way to do so! Farm profiles are just $100 and very simple to do. All I need is a half page write up about your facility and two photos from around the farm that you want to use! Talk about your farms training, breeding, lessons offered, anything you want! These are completely different than what we've done in the past, so take advantage of this new way to be in the magazine :)

Also this is the STALLION EDITION!!! I think this will be our best issue to feature and build our breed's finest. Please contact Kim Richwine at the info below (or find my info in the magazine) for Ad prices and design services too!

Kim Richwine
NWHA National News Magazine
(317)679-8848
news@nwha.com

December 30, 2009

The National Walking Horse Association seeks individuals to serve as Designated Qualified Persons (DQP). DQP's perform physical inspections of horses at National Walking Horse Association affiliated events to check for compliance with the Federal Horse Protection Act of 1970. Applicants must be 21 years of age, have experience working with horses and be in excellent physical condition.

For more information please visit the National Walking Horse Association website at www.nwha.com  or contact Dr. Martha M. Day, Director of Designated Qualified Persons and Animal Welfare at dayconsulting@gmail.com

Information about the 2010 DQP Clinic can be found on the shows and events page under February 2010.

 

December 10, 2009

The National Walking Horse Association is pleased to announce the availability of Rose Miller’s book, “The Horse That Wouldn’t Trot: A Life with Tennessee Walking Horses, Lessons Learned and Memories Shared.”

This book is entertaining yet carries an important message. Some show Walkers are subjected to “soring,” a method used to get the horses to step in an exaggerated manner. This book shares some history of the Tennessee Walking Horse, insights into soring—past and present, and what is being done now to stop the practice. Poignant personal horse and human relationship stories abound, told with humor and honesty. The Horse That Wouldn’t Trot is for both the experienced and inexperienced equestrian. In fact, one doesn’t need to own a horse to enjoy The Horse That Wouldn’t Trot!

Rose has loved horses all her life and began breeding and showing in 1979 until she retired from both ventures in 2006. Since then, she has been inspired to share her stories, hoping to educate, inspire and entertain. In her life, it has always been true that when “God closes one door, He opens another.”

The campaign to stop soring abuse of our beloved breed got a big boost in 2006 when The New York Times, Equus, Horse Illustrated, The Horse and other media, carried articles exposing the cruelty of this once hidden practice. When Rose began to write, she only wanted to tell moving but sometimes sad, joyful and engaging stories of her animals. Soon she realized her story was mixed up with the soring issue and had to share that ugliness too.

Rose thanks Dr. Dave Whitaker, Director of the Horse Program at Middle Tennessee State University, for his extremely insightful endorsement of The Horse That Wouldn’t Trot, and Dr. Robert M. Miller, veterinarian and author, for his heart-felt endorsement of the effort to expose soring.

Graciously, a portion of all sales will be donated to NWHA. Be sure to pick up your copy now! A great gift for this holiday season!

The Horse That Wouldn’t Trot ISBN 978-160844-264-5 is available at www.rosemiller.net  for $14.95.
 

December 1, 2009

Earlier this week, The HSUS rescued more than 80 horses from squalid conditions on a Cannon County, TN farm. The majority of the horses are Spotted Saddle and TN Walking Horses that will ultimately need to be placed in sound, loving homes. It will be several weeks before the horses will be available for adoption and The HSUS will be working with local and national horse rescue groups to facilitate placement. To view a video of the rescue, please visit: www.hsus.org  More details will be available in the coming days and weeks, If you are interested in helping a horse either by offering a home and/or donating funds or supplies to assist with their care, please contact tnhorse@hsus.org  Please include your name, address, phone and email address.

November 19, 2009

Carrie Mortensen Selected as Executive Director of NWHA

Lexington—Carrie Mortensen of Lexington, Kentucky has been selected to serve as the executive director of the National Walking Horse Association. “Carrie brings over 15 years of experience in business, management and horses to NWHA. Her experience with the United States Equestrian Federation as their Director of Breeds and Western Disciplines, the Jockey Club and the American Saddlebred Horse Association in their registries, and her personal involvement with horses are huge assets to NWHA. Carrie received her Bachelor’s Degree in Business and Equestrian Science from William Woods University and her MBA from Xavier University. NWHA is currently expanding by leaps and bounds and we are excited that Carrie has chosen to join our team and help us continue our momentum,” stated NWHA President Lori Snyder-Lowe.

Ms. Mortensen will begin her official duties as executive director on November 23, 2009. “I feel extremely privileged to be joining the NWHA Team at this exciting time and look forward to being a part of the anticipated growth and vitality of this critically important association and its mission,” Ms. Mortensen stated.
 

October 31, 2009

WEG picks natural walking horses for exhibits
By Janet Patton - jpatton1@herald-leader.com

A controversial Tennessee Walking Horse group will not be allowed to participate in the Equine Village at the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games after all. More...

October 15, 2009

The Horse Show Development and National Show Committees as well as your Board of Directors would like to thank all our members and exhibitors for their support of the sophomore year of NWHA's Regional Championship Show program in 2009, and also the debut of the Regional Grand Championship classes held at the National. These classes in particular provided a brilliant display of Championship spirit, fierce competitiveness and true sportsmanship camaraderie for both those competing and the enthusiastic spectators clutching the rails in anticipation. We are already looking on to 2010 eagerly as we continue expanding and improving this program.

One such improvement will be to clarify the eligibility requirements for the finals. The program originally was intended to offer those horses who placed 1,2, or 3 in a Championship class at a Regional Championship a spot in the finals, but the intent was lost in translation in actual application. We apologize for any unintended confusion on these requirements and will be sure to provide more clarity on eligibility for the next round of Regional Grand Champion contenders.

The Horse Show Development and National Show committees are also working together to explore new incentives and other exciting developments for this program. Watch for more news in the coming months and once again, thank you for helping to make this program such a great success for NWHA.
 

October 12, 2009

Annual Meeting Registration Reminder

Please remember to get your registrations in to the NWHA Office for the
2009 Annual Membership Meeting. We are in the process of finalizing all
information for Opryland and need correct numbers for the social,
meetings, etc. Please click this link for the registration form:
 

October 7, 2009

Plans for the 2009 NWHA Annual Membership Meeting to be held November 5-6 is well underway. A great agenda has been planned with clinics, high point awards, silent auction and great hospitality. The silent auction is a great way to have a great time and purchase some items that you have not had an opportunity to purchase before. Please take this time to gather your items for the silent auction and bring to the meeting, if you are not able to attend Jimmy Black will conduct the auction and can be contacted to see that your donated items are placed in the auction. You may contact Jimmy Black at jimmyblack3@bellsouth.net  or 803-259-3054.

Come and enjoy the weekend!
 

October 6, 2009

NWHA SHOW RESULTS and JUDGES CARDS UPDATED!

The NWHA National Championship Show results have been updated and
corrections have been made to the results and judges cards. See the
newest information on the NWHA website under the National Show link.
 

October 5, 2009

NWHA Hosts Largest Flatshod Walking Horse Show in the World!

The 2009 NWHA National Championship Show was a huge success! There were increases across the board – entries, horses, stalls, camping spots - all up this year! Over 1600 entries and over 300 horses!

“This year’s show hosted fantastic competition and great opportunities to socialize with friends. We are excited that our show was so well supported and the turnout in the stands to cheer on our horses was super! We are extremely grateful for the hard work and leadership of our National Show Committee and our Show Manager Mark Farrar”, stated President Lori Snyder-Lowe.

Show results, judges’ cards and video of the event can be seen on the NWHA website at www.nwha.com 
 

October 5, 2009

REMINDER: PLEASE make your room reservations for the Annual Meeting!
Remember to mention code X-NWHA or "National Walking Horse Association"
when you book your rooms. 615-883-2211
DEADLINE - October 7

Annual Membership Meeting Flyer
 

October 1, 2009

The 2009 NWHA Nationals heads into day four of competition with a big jump in entries. Through Wednesday night, 917 entries have competed, compared to 832 last year. The new Regional Championships have been a big hit with Smart 'N Wicked and Jennie Jackson winning the Lite Shod Championship and Duke Pride of Genius and Larry Welter taking home the Plantation Pleasure tri-colors.

Over 700 viewers logged onto WalkingHorseWorld.com to watch the Tuesday night Nationals. Due to technical trouble, the show was not broadcast last night, but instead featured a re-broadcast of Tuesday's action. Internet broadcasting will
continue this afternoon on WalkingHorseWorld.com and NWHA 2009 National Show page.

Complete show results can be found at www.gaitkeeper.com
 

September 26, 2009

NWHA Championship Show Results
Will Be Posted Daily to the NWHA Website!
 

September 23, 2009

NWHA Expanding into Kentucky!

The National Walking Horse Association (NWHA) is pleased to announce that it will affiliate six (6) new shows to be held in Liberty, Kentucky in 2010:

WALK Spring Fun Show – April 29-30, and May 1

Blue Grass Spring Fling - May 27-29

WALK Summer Blast Show - July 15-17

Kentucky Flat Shod Celebration August 12-14

WALKD Fun Show - September 9-11

WALK Fall Show - October 14-16

“I want to express our sincere appreciation to Chip Carrier, Connie Holbrook, Lynn MacGregor, Jason Crawhorn, and Lisa Hite for working to establish these new shows. All of them will be eligible under the Kentucky Incentive Fund. With the development of these new shows and the recent announcement of NWHA’s selection to exhibit at the World Equestrian Games, we have an exciting future in Kentucky!” stated NWHA President Lori Snyder-Lowe.

September 22, 2009

Vanessa Crowe Resigns
as NWHA Executive Director

The Executive Committee has regretfully accepted the resignation of Vanessa Crowe from the position of Executive Director of the National Walking Horse Association, effective October 16, 2009. We appreciate Vanessa’s excellent service to our association as she has been instrumental in helping NWHA to grow and prosper both in the Kentucky Horse Park and the equine industry as a whole. We wish Vanessa success in her new endeavor with Natural Vet.

The Executive Committee of NWHA has initiated a search for an Executive Director and resumes are being accepted. Skills must include business, marketing and accounting experience; ability to utilize Microsoft Office/Word/QuickBooks/Power Point/Excel; independent/managerial experience and good communication skills; nonprofit experience is desirable; familiarity with the sound Walking Horse industry is desirable; office is located in the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington; no benefits included; send resume, writing sample and salary requirement to: 2415 North Riverview Road, Malta, OH 43758.
 

September 22, 2009

NWHATR PROMOTION ANNOUNCEMENT

MEMBERSHIP FOR YOUR HORSE!

The National Walking Horse Association’s Tracking Registry is pleased to announce a special fall promotional opportunity for new enrollees. During the National Championship Show , September 28- October 3, 2009, members may purchase a lifetime enrollment for their equine partners into the NWHATR at the discounted price of $20 per horse, which is a 50% discount off the normal non member cost. Enrollment forms and information will be available in the Show Office and at the NWHA Merchandise booth on the main concourse. Additionally, there will be personnel on hand at the NWHA Booth during the show to help to answer any questions about the NWHATR at various times throughout the week of the show. DNA testing and gait certification services are also available at additional costs, but are not included in the discount promotion.

Members who are unable to attend the show are also eligible for the discount promotion and can download the forms here. Completed forms must be postmarked by October 3, 2009 and sent to the NWHA Office to be eligible for the promotional pricing.

Remember it’s Lifetime Membership for your Horse! Download the promotional packet.
 

September 22, 2009

NWHA Selected for 2010 World Equestrian Games (WEG) Exhibition

The National Walking Horse Association (NWHA) has been selected by the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games to exhibit its outstanding, naturally gaited horses to the world!

For the first time ever, the World Equestrian Games will be held in the United States. Previous World Equestrian Games have been held in Germany, Spain, Italy, Netherlands, and Sweden. Breeds, disciplines, exhibitors, trainers, owners and spectators from around the world will converge on the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, Kentucky in September and October 2010 to observe and participate in this extraordinary event.

“NWHA is thrilled to be part of this world wide event. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity for NWHA to showcase our horses, our organization, our members and our passion,” stated NWHA President, Lori Snyder-Lowe.

Sponsors and volunteers are needed to support NWHA’s efforts. To learn more about these opportunities please contact the NWHA Office.

The exhibition will showcase the best of the best that NWHA has to offer and will present an exciting look into the world of our horses and their talents. The exhibition will be breathtaking with the exceptional qualities of our horses being the focal point of the presentation. NWHA members and their horses will be selected to participate based on their skills, commitment and willingness to participate. The Members Only area of the NWHA website (www.nwha.com) contains the details of selection.
 

September 21, 2009

Tickets to the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games held at the Kentucky Horse Park September 25 through October 10, 2010 will go on Sale this Week!

Tickets to the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games go on sale September 25 at noon EST. Ticket sales will be facilitated by Ticketmaster, and sold through www.ticketmaster.com  Tickets will also be available for purchase at all Ticketmaster outlets. Anyone with special needs, including ADA seating, may call the Ticketmaster hotline at 1-800-745-3000.

Tickets for reserved seating will be available to each session of competition of the eight world championships of equestrian sport. Prices range from $25 to $150, providing a range of options for every spectator.

All tickets will be sold on-online, through the Ticketmaster hotline, or at any Ticketmaster outlet. No tickets will be sold in person or via phone.
 

September 20, 2009

REMINDER: PLEASE make your room reservations for the Annual Meeting!
Remember to mention code X-NWHA or "National Walking Horse Association"
when you book your rooms. 615-883-2211

Annual Membership Meeting Flyer
 

DATE September 17, 2009
For immediate release

Kentucky Racing Commission chooses NWHA to inspect Walking Horse Shows

The Kentucky Horse Racing Commission (KHRC) announced on September 8, 2009 that the National Walking Horse Association (NWHA) is one of three Horse Industry Organizations (HIOs) that have been chosen to conduct inspections at Walking Horse shows in Kentucky where participants are eligible for Breeders Incentive Funds. The Racing Commission is charged with administering incentive funds for non-racing breeds as well as for the racing breeds in Kentucky.

The KHRC worked with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), the American Association of Equine Practitioners and other groups to conduct an extensive investigation of the Kentucky Walking Horse Association HIO and its record of inspections and compliance with the federal Horse Protection Act at Kentucky shows for the past three years. As a result, the Racing Commission chose NWHA along with the Horse Protection Commission and the Friends of Sound Horses as the HIOs to ensure compliance with the federal law at shows where incentive funds are offered. All three HIOs are certified by the USDA.

“We look forward to working with the Racing Commission to provide a new level of thorough and professional inspections for Kentucky shows that affiliate with NWHA. NWHA's policy of zero tolerance for soring, scars and any violation of the Horse Protection Act is well known and should reassure show managers that their shows will be in full compliance with the law,” said Lori Snyder-Lowe, President of NWHA.
Breeders Incentive funds for Walking Horses in Kentucky is expected to exceed $700,000 in 2010.

A full copy of the recommendations can be found on the KHRC website:
www.khrc.ky.gov  http://www.khrc.ky.gov
 

September 14, 2009

Attention 2008 National Versatility Champions
Please Remember - The Versatility Championship Trophies Need to Be Returned!!
Please contact Steve Marshall at scmarshall@windstream.net  (919-353-0160)
or DeDe Marshall at ghosthorse@windstream.net  (910-220-5550)
to finalize arrangements.

September 4, 2009

REMINDER

Contact NWHA Office if you have a new mailing address. Ballots will be going out next week. To receive yours, make sure you are a current member and the office has your correct mailing address. 859-252-NWHA (6942)

September 2, 2009

Another way to help make a difference!

Support NWHA when you purchase 2010 World Equestrian merchandise. When making a 2010 World Equestrian merchandise purchase All Pro Champions will support NWHA with a percentage of your purchase. You must go through the NWHA site and click on the icon below in order for All Pro to calculate the purchase from NWHA supporters. This icon as well as other NWHA supports can be found on the NWHA supporter page too.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 31, 2009     
Contact: Vanessa Crowe
859-252-NWHA (6942)

 NWHA TO HOST VERSATILITY CLINIC FOR JUDGES 

The National Walking Horse Association will host a versatility clinic for licensed NWHA judges on November 5, 2009 at the MTSU Horse Science Center in Murfreesboro, Tennessee.  By participating in this clinic, judges will be able to continue their education in several versatility areas with special emphasis on Equitation and Showmanship. Clinicians include Dr. Dave Whitaker from MTSU, Wilda Derickson and Vanessa Crowe.

This is a fantastic opportunity for judges to strengthen their skills in the many facets of versatility. NWHA owes a huge “Thank You” to Duke, Rhonda and Allison Thorson for making this clinic possible.

Click here to download the Registration Form.

Click here to download the Agenda.

September 1, 2009

2009 National Show ONLINE Entries

On line Entries Available for The 2009 National
Pre-entry deadline is Sept 14
Website http://gaitkeeper.com/
Instructions

A Current Coggins certificate and payment (open check or amount totals)
required at show office for check in.

 August 24, 2009

4H Outreach Campaign

The National Walking Horse Association is embarking on a new effort to educate the horse-owning public on the joy of riding and owning a Tennessee Walking Horse. This effort will be targeting county extension agents and their local 4H programs.

The first step in this program is to locate NWHA members who are willing to work with 4H Extension Agents by volunteering their time, their knowledge, their horses, etc. Once a member has agreed to participate, we ask that the member obtain the name and mailing address of the agent(s) in the county or counties in which they would like to participate. Our office will send a letter to the agent, asking for the opportunity to introduce the TWH to the local 4H program.

Please consider becoming involved in this outreach program. You will have the opportunity to share your love of the Tennessee Walking Horse with children who may be experiencing this breed for the first time. Please email Vanessa Crowe at execdir7@nwha.com with your name and contact info, as well as the name and address of the extension agents in the counties in which you would like to participate.

August 10, 2009

Members
The Competitive Trail Challenge to be held Aug. 22 at Lake Stanley Draper in OKC will be NWHA affiliated. This means if you are a NWHA member participating in the Trail Rider Incentive Program (TRIP) you will earn double hours for your ride.

Still not too late to join TRIP. Check the show and events calendar for more information or call 405-771-3606.
 

August 7, 2009

The non-profit National Walking Horse Association will participate in the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games Equine Village and in the Demonstration Entertainment venue September 25 through October 10, 2010. On behalf of the National Walking Horse Association we will produce the highest level of demonstrations and entertainment so that we will be artistically, technically, and commercially successful in order to elevate the walking horse in America and showcase the National Walking Horse Association. NWHA would like to request your donations in support of this unprecedented opportunity to promote the walking horse.

Visit the WEG page on how you can help.
 

August 6, 2009

2008 High Point Recipients; If you would like to purchase your 2008 High Point Champion or Reserve Champion Award you may send the payment to the NWHA office. If you do not wish to purchase the 2008 High Point Award please return the award(s) on or before September 1, 2009.

The NWHA office must know your answer by August 12, 2009 as the manufacture has given us a production deadline.

To ship or to send payment; NWHA,

4059 Ironworks Parkway, Suite
Lexington, KY 40511

Questions; 859-252-NWHA (6942)
execdir7@nwha.com

Please be sure that the award is securely packaged before shipping.
 

August 6, 2009

The traditional Amateur Cards for showing will be replaced with NWHA Show Cards beginning with the 2010 Show Season.

All exhibitors (excluding Country Pleasure Classes) will be required to have a current NWHA Show Card. NWHA members and exhibitors at NWHA shows must designate their status as Y- Youth, A- Amateur, or O-Open/non-amateur. These cards are available as part of full NWHA membership privileges.

For our non-member exhibitors there are two options available to obtain a Show Card:

• A temporary show pass will be available at a cost of $15. Temporary show passes are valid for a total of 4 consecutive days from date of purchase.

• A Season Show Pass will be available at a cost of $40, and is valid for the entire NWHA season which runs from approximately October thru September.

Exhibitors must designate their status as Y-Youth, A-Amateur, or O-Open/non-amateur.

Associate memberships do not carry show card benefits. As of 4-9-09 Board meeting an Associate membership will no longer be available to purchase.

Beginning with the 2010 Show Season, the current amateur card system will be modified to encompass all exhibitors showing at NWHA affiliated shows in classes covered by NWHA rules and included in the current High Point Program (Country Pleasure Excluded). The current amateur cards will be replaced with Membership cards with the member# and a letter which specifies the member’s status as Y- Youth, A-Amateur, or O-Open Exhibitor. Associate memberships will not have a designation as they do not offer show benefits. For those who do not desire to purchase a membership, we will offer 2 options. They may choose to buy a Temporary Show Card for $15 which covers the exhibitor for any and all NWHA events over a 4 day period beginning with the date of purchase, or a Seasonal Show Card for $40 which covers all NWHA affiliated events for the current season. Temporary and Seasonal Card holders must still designate their status as either Youth, Amateur or Open exhibitor, and this information will be maintained in the NWHA office. These cards will be valid options at all shows with the exception of the National which requires exhibitors to have a membership with full privileges to participate.

August 5, 2009

The 11th Annual Western States Horse Expo was held in Sacramento, California on June 12-14, 2009. Over 70,000 people attend from across the United States, Canada, Mexico, and even Australia. The Expo consists of three days of clinics, sales, competitions, demonstrations, and exhibitions. For the 10th year, the Tennessee Walking Horse was represented through a breed booth and daily demonstration. This year, the breed was sponsored by the National Walking Horse Association and the very generous private support of NWHA members Margaret Hershberger, Gordon Lawler, Val Delana, Pam Reband, Marie Erickson, and Lori Snyder-Lowe.

This year, four horses and riders participated in the Tennessee Walking Horse breed demonstration. The demonstration was beautifully narrated by Pat Forsberg. The demonstration started with the participants riding a short drill pattern while Pat reviewed the history and basic characteristics of the breed. The horses then took the rail and the three gaits were demonstrated. Time was then given for individual demonstrations by the participants. Susan Cole and Gail Seat showed that one does not have to give up color to have a smooth ride. Susan rode Pat Forsberg’s 6 year old tobiano gelding, Champagne Whisky Mixer and Gail rode her 14 year old tobiano gelding, Star Chaser’s Magic. Lucinda Romero then rode the 5 year old chestnut mare Sundrop’s Dominator and showed how the Walking Horse can be used for dressage work with a short dressage test. Sundrop’s Dominator is owned by the Allen family. Kris Herman completed the individual work with her 11 year old chestnut gelding, I’m Billy The Kid. He was ridden in western tack and helped demonstrate the overall versatility of the Tennessee Walking Horse.

Over twenty members of the newly formed Northern California Walking Horse Association staffed the breed booth, talking with visitors, handing out information on the NWHA and the NCWHA, and promoting the sound Tennessee Walking Horse. The booth was right next to the horse stalls, so visitors could see a Tennessee Walking Horse up close and personal. The breed was extremely well received and very popular with attendees. There was a great deal of interest in the National Walking Horse Association and its mission. Demand was so great that there wasn’t a single piece of literature left over at the end of the weekend!

Plans are already being made for Tennessee Walking Horse participation at the 2010 Western States Horse Exposition. If you are around Sacramento June 11-13, 2010, please join us!
 

July 29, 2009

PLEASE make your room reservations for the Annual Meeting!
Remember to mention code X-NWHA or "National Walking Horse Association"
when you book your rooms. 615-883-2211

Annual Membership Meeting Flyer
 

July 23, 2009

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact Person: Teresa Bippen
tbippen@fosh.info

Third Sound Horse Conference Planning Underway
(07-21-2009)

Representatives from Friends of Sound Horses (FOSH), the Walking Horse Owners’ Association (WHOA), the National Walking Horse Association (NWHA), the Tennessee Walking Horse Breeders & Exhibitors’ Association (TWHBEA) and Western International Walking Horse Association (WIWHA) met to discuss and develop the preliminary agenda and topics to be presented at the third Sound Horse Conference. The purpose of the conference is to bring together a wide complement of experts, research and resources to address solutions to end the abuse of soring of gaited horses.

The 2010 Conference program will include Walking Horse breed history, gait biomechanics and physiology, and recognition and honoring of individuals and organizations that have made a change for the improved welfare of Tennessee Walking Horses.

Topics and speakers are continuing to be developed, and gaited horse owners and interested parties are encouraged to visit www.soundhorseconference.com  to submit their ideas and view the proceedings and presentations from past conferences.

The conference is being held November 5 and 6, 2010 in Louisville, Kentucky.

The Sound Horse Conference is a gathering of concerned individuals and organizations working to end soring of gaited horses through education, information sharing and promotion of sound horses.

 

July 21, 2009

The Neil Cark Scholarship Award deadline is August 1st 2009 please visit the Youth Program page for details.

All NWHA Youth are encouraged to participated in their state’s 4-H horse program. Please remember to send in the NWHA Youth/4-H Achievement Program Application.

Presentations will be held during the 2009 National Championship, held September 28-October 3, 2009

July 20, 2009

For Immediate Release: NWHA forms partnership with The Natural Horse Vet

For Immediate Release:

NWHA forms partnership with The Natural Horse Vet

Lexington, Kentucky - July 14, 2009 - The National Walking Horse has formed
an affiliation with Dr. Dan Moore DVM and The Natural Vet Companies to bring
to its members, his lineup of popular natural products for people, pets and horses.

Through the affiliation, each purchase through our uniquely linked site will directly
benefit the NWHA.

Known as the Natural Horse Vet, Natural Pet Vet or simply Dr. Dan by most,
Dr. Dan has been featured on the several media outlets and national publications
as well as horse shows throughout the country.

Dr. Dan has formulated dozens of products for horses, pets and people with
the personal mission to create natural alternatives that really work- and work for all!

His Bug Check product was named "Most Innovative Healthcare Product"
in 2001 and to-date has provided benefits to over ten thousand horses.

We think our members will enjoy the other unique products and information
offered through his online presentations.

Use the link below for more information.

July 20, 2009

Don’t forget!

The deadline for the 2009 pre-National issue of the
NWHA National News is July 27!

Submit your articles and ad orders now!

Whitney Shore
Direct: (678) 500-1787
Fax: (770) 953-8895
whitney@haystackgroup.com
www.haystackgroup.com

July 17, 2009

The HSUS Hails U.S. House of Representatives Vote to Save Wild Horses
and Millions of Tax Dollars

(July 17, 2009) WASHINGTON — The Humane Society of the United States applauds the U.S. House of Representatives for passing the "Restore Our American Mustangs" (ROAM) Act, H.R. 1018, a federal bill to protect wild horses and burros from commercial sale and slaughter, while at the same time implementing proactive solutions to manage wild horses that will save millions of tax dollars. More...

July 17, 2009

Exciting News for Lifetime Superior Achievement Participants!

You will now be able to track your LSAP achievements on the NWHA Website.
The searchable data base is available on the LSAP page at www.nwha.com/lifetime.html

There will also be a link from your horse if it is registered in the NWHATR. This link will take readers from your horses' pedigree with links page to the searchable data base.
Results will be updated each year after NWHA LSAP books are turned in and tabulated. Only results from books that are turned in on time will be able to be posted.

July 15, 2009

KENTUCKY HORSE PARK OFFICIALLY OPENS NEW INDOOR ARENA

$45 Million Facility Secures Park as the World's Leading Equestrian Venue

LEXINGTON, KY (July 15, 2009) Today, the Kentucky Horse Park secured its position as the world's leading equestrian venue with the opening of a $45-million, state-of-the-art Indoor Arena.

"Today the Kentucky Horse Park, together with Governor and Mrs. Steven Beshear, the General Assembly, civic leaders and citizens of the Commonwealth of Kentucky celebrate not only the opening of this impressive structure, but also the successful partnership that produced it, and the legacy of benefits that will flow from it for decades to come."

The arena was designed by GBBN Architects (offices in Lexington and Louisville), and built by DW Wilburn, a Lexington company. It was designed specifically for the park, after consultations with the leaders of numerous equestrian disciplines, so that it would be the most versatile and user-friendly facility possible. While designed for equestrian competition, the arena will also be used frequently for other types.

Special features include 5,700 stadium seats and nine suites with 200 suite suite seats, a 135 x 300-foot event floor (equal to one football field or four basketball courts) with special equine surface, 20,000 square feet of exhibitor space, six concession areas, a warm-up barn, outdoor warm-up ring, high-tech sound system, 568 parking spaces, and bathrooms with 91 stalls.

Additionally, the fundraising arm of the park, the Kentucky Horse Park Foundation, is in the process of constructing a three-barn complex with 312 stalls adjacent to the arena, to provide stabling for the thousands of horses who will compete in the arena. These state-of-the-art barns, funded entirely by the private sector, will allow the Kentucky Horse Park to serve as a competition facility 365 days per year, making the park even more attractive to potential horse shows currently held in other states.

Kentucky Governor Steven Beshear, today's special guest speaker, stated, "This arena is not just a contribution to the horse industry; it will have a positive effect across the commonwealth. Every citizen in each corner of the Kentucky can take pride in this arena because we will all reap the rewards in terms of additional business and increased awareness around the world."

There isn't another equine center in the world that offers the breadth of competition facilities that are now available at the Kentucky Horse Park."

The arena is already booked with approximately 30 events. Among the events contracted to use the arena is the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games in 2010. The first event to take place will be next week's WEG Reining Test Event, July 20-23.

The Kentucky Horse Park is a working horse farm/theme park and equine competition facility dedicated to man's relationship with the horse. The park is an agency of the Kentucky Tourism, Arts and Heritage Cabinet that hosted nearly 900,000 visitors and campers, as well as 15,000 competition horses in more than 100 special events and horse shows in 2008. The park is home to the National Horse Center which comprises more than 30 national and regional equine organizations.

Vanessa Crowe,
NWHA Executive Director
4059 Iron Works Parkway, Suite 4
Lexington, KY 40511
Phone:859-252-6942
Fax: 859-252-0640

July 1, 2009

 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games Announces Ticket Prices
Ticket Sales Set to Begin on September 25, 2009

Ticket prices and detailed competition schedules for the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games are now available as the world’s most prestigious equestrian competition prepares to visit the Kentucky Horse Park from September 25-October 10, 2010.

Ticket prices and event start times have been finalized for the eight world championships, which are being held outside of Europe for the first time in their history. Tickets will go on sale September 25, 2009, exactly one year before the Games arrive in Kentucky. Approximately 600,000 tickets will be available with prices starting as low as $25.

For a complete list of ticket prices, click here.

“We are pleased to have created a ticket program that will be accessible and affordable,” said Jamie Link, CEO of the World Games 2010 Foundation. “We have a wide range of prices that offer something for everyone, from equestrian enthusiasts to visitors who want to enjoy the 2010 Games, the Kentucky Horse Park and the many other activities and offerings we have available.”

Ticket sales will be facilitated by the 2010 Games Ticketing Provider, Ticketmaster, Inc. All ticket sales will be completed online at the Games Web site, www.alltechfeigames.com beginning on September 25, 2009. Event start times are subject to change.

By registering at www.alltechfeigames.com interested buyers will be able to receive important news and information about ticket sales as it becomes available. Subscribers will also receive:

• A 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games competition schedule

• Housing and accommodation information

• Press releases on the latest news updates

• Information on hospitality packages

• The latest release of official 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Game merchandise

• Information on events and activities in Kentucky during the 2010 Games
   

June 24, 2009

The National News May/June/July Issue is now available on line in the members only site and all NWHA members should be receiving the magazine in their mail box soon!

June 24, 2009

Annual Membership Meeting Flyer

June 24, 2009

Please remember - applications for NWHA Officers and Board of Directors must be submitted by July 15, 2009. Guidelines and requirements can be found in the members only section of this website.
 

June 17, 2009

Articles and advertising are now being accepted for the
2009 Pre-National issue of NWHA News!

Ads and articles are due on or before July 27 but space is filling quickly!

The editorial calendar, advertising rates and technical production information is available in the 2009 National News media kit.

The following ads have already sold:

Front Cover
Back Cover
Page 3
Center Spread

Don’t miss your chance to advertise in the Pre-National issue! Place your order today!

We are also accepting articles on the following topics:

The National Show
Tack and Grooming
NWHA news and activities
Industry news
Youth news

**In the interest of keeping editing to a minimum and using as much of the original article as possible, please limit editorial submissions to no more than 1500 words**

Also accepting:

Member Spotlight submissions: Tell us in 500 words or fewer why you or a fellow NWHA member should be featured in the next issue. High resolution photos are encouraged!

Questions for the New Ask the Vet column: Send us your most burning equine questions to be answered by Dr. Kenneth Marcella, DVM!

Advertising orders, articles and questions may be emailed to news@nwha.com or call 770-953-8818.

The deadline for stories AND advertising is July 27. Submissions received after July 27 will not be included in this issue.

June 16, 2009

2009 National Horse Show

Camper Reservations

To reserve your same 2008 camper site, reservations and payment must be made by July 1.
All site not reserved & paid by this date will be considered open and available on a first come bases.
$175 - Sunday (9/27) thru Saturday (10/3)
Complete form and mail to NWHA office.
More info - please contact Connie Holbrook 615 207-2754 cell or cholbrook@comcast.net

Stall Reservations

Reservations will begin July 2 - To reserve your same 2008 stalls, reservation must be made by Aug 15.
All stall not reserved by this date will be considered open and available on a first come bases.
$100 per stall - Sunday (9/27) thru Saturday (10/3)
No advance payment required
Reservations - please contact Connie Holbrook 615 207-2754 cell or cholbrook@comcast.net
 

June 4, 2009

Competitive Trail Challenges on RFD TV

A 30 minute special on the ACTHA and their Competitive Trail Challenges will air on RFDTV on the Rick Lamb’s The Horse show program June 16, 2009. A 5 minute feature will show in the remaining month of June and continue in the months of July and August. There will be a feature story in Trail Blazer magazine this summer also. Times on the RFDTV show appear to be 12Noon and 10PM Central. This could change by June 16 but you can find the schedule on the www.rfdtv.com website.

June 3, 2009

Annual Youth Leadership Conference

NWHA presents the Second Annual Youth Leadership Conference, July 13-15, 2009 to be held at the Kentucky Horse Park, Lexington KY.

Please visit the Youth Page for more information and registration forms. If you are not able to download the forms please contact Tammy Steinbrecher rockinglazyt@windstream.net or the NWHA office - 859-252-NWHA (6942) - to have the forms mailed to you.

 

May 28, 2009

ANNUAL MEETING TO BE HELD AT THE OPRYLAND RESORT

NWHA’s 11th Annual Meeting will be held at the Opryland Resort and Conference Center in Nashville on November 6, 7, and 8. Come join the fun as members gather to celebrate the year’s accomplishments and plan for the future!

Registration forms are on the NWHA website and available through the NWHA Office. Hotel reservations must be made by contacting the Opryland Resort directly at 615-883-2211 and stating that you are with the National Walking Horse Association or use the group code, X-NWHA. The A special rate of $99.00 per night will be used for our members.

Highlights of the event will include the committee sessions on Friday evening, the luncheon and awards ceremony on Saturday, and of course, the very popular silent auction and social on Saturday night. The Opryland Resort offers amenities and activities for people of all ages. Bring your family and enjoy a fun weekend!
 

May 27, 2009

NWHA LAUNCHES MEMBERS ONLY AREA!

As the result of numerous requests, the National Walking Horse Association is excited to announce the addition of a “members only area” on its website. This new area will include informative articles on the training and care of gaited horses, news items and various other features for NWHA members. Members are able to access the site beginning immediately ( www.nwha.com/members/membersarea.html ). They will use their NWHA member number and their name to login to the site. Usernames include the first letter of the first name along with the full last name (ex. Andy Smith would be asmith). All passwords begin with nwha (lowercase), followed by the member number (ex. Member #1268 would be nwha1268). Family Memberships: each family member has been assigned a new membership number.

If you need help with accessing the site, please contact the NWHA Office at 1-859-252- NWHA (6942). NWHA is continually looking for ways to show our appreciation to the membership and to promote our great organization! Please visit the website
( www.nwha.com ) often as new information will be updated regularly.
 

May 27, 2009

The photos from the NWHA Dogwood Classic
Regional Championship Horse Show have been posted.

Here is the link to the images:

http://fallondesign.exposuremanager.com/g/
the_dogwood_classic_2009_nwha_regional_championship

 

May 14, 2009

 SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT 2009 SHOW MANAGERS!!!

Effectively Immediate; Amendment to 2009 NWHA Rule 5.7

A new guideline has been added to the Amateur Owned and Trained (AOT)rule to help with the burden of saddle removal and replacement due to the new USDA requirements. NWHA Rulebook Section 5.7 will be amended immediately to state;

If an AOT exhibitor needs assistance holding a horse so they can remove or resaddle their horse during the DQP inspection process, the AOT exhibitor will not be penalized if they are assisted by a non-amateur status exhibitor.

This new guideline will take effect immediately for all affiliated NWHA shows.

May 12, 2009

Southern States
S.H.O.W. Program Redemption

The National Walking Horse Association is a participant with the Southern States S.H.O.W. Program.

17. What Southern States feed products are eligible for redemption?

1. The Triple Crown®, Reliance® and Legends® horse feeds are eligible for S.H.O.W.
   Program credit.

17. How do I participate in the program for NWHA?

1. The “Proofs of purchase” seals are located on the back-bottom of horse feed bags. ALL proofs must be neatly bundled and counted. Please separate proofs by brands, i.e. Triple Crown, Reliance, Legends. Only original customer copies of bulk bin delivery tickets can be accepted. Photocopies will not be credited. Bulk bin delivery tickets only accepted from current S. H.O.W. fiscal year July 1 – June 30. Mail your proofs to:

DeDe Marshall
240 Loblolly Lane
Ellerbe, NC 28338-9118

17. What is the value to NWHA?

1. All proofs of purchase except Reliance® =25¢ ea.
   Reliance® proofs of purchase=10¢ ea.
   All bulk bin original delivery tickets except Reliance® = $10 /ton
   Reliance® bulk bin delivery tickets =$4/ton

The Southern States S.H.O.W. program revenue will be restricted to the NWHA Trail Program, please support the Trail Program!
 

April 21, 2009

True West Campground and Stables, The Gateway to the Big South Fork near Jamestown, TN, will host an American Competition Trail Horse Association (ACTHA) Competitive Trail Challenge July 4, 2009. Visit www.actha.us to get more information on CTC and to register for the ride, reserve camping & stalls visit www.truewestcampground.com for more information about the facility and riding the Big South Fork. NWHA members enrolled in the TRIP will be able to count double hours for this ride.

Two Texas Women (TTW) will host an ACTHA Competitive Trail Challenge at Trace Trails near Athens, TX. September 19, 2009.
For information on American Competitive Trail Horse Association and to sign up for rides, visit www.actha.us. For information on TTW events visit www.gaitedgala.com.
NWHA members enrolled in TRIP will be eligible for double hours for this event.

April 20, 2009

Please be advised that the East Texas Gaited Classic SHOW IS CANCELED
(NWHA Region 6 Championship) April 24 & 25, Nacogdoches, TX
 

April 15, 2009

The National Walking Horse Association has recently teamed up with the American Competitive Trail Horse Association to promote the ACTHA Competitive Trail Challenges.

The NWHA Trail Committee researched ACTHA and found their mission to be a worthy one and their activities to be a beneficial offering for NWHA members.

ACTHA's mission...
*To create an enjoyable venue showcasing the wonderful attributes of the great American trail horse, granting them the recognition they so richly deserve.
*To create a registry open to all breeds and a point designation system which will stay with each horse for its lifetime, thereby adding to their value and distinction.
*To create and enable humane treatment options for horses in need.

ACTHA donates up to 50% of its proceeds to eligible horse charities annually.

The Trail Committee recommended to the NWHA Board of Directors an affiliation form and Standard Operating Procedure for affiliating the ACTHA CTCs. The form and SOP are now available on the NWHA website on the Trail Rider page and on the Forms page under SOPs.

Several NWHA affiliated ACTHA CTCs are already in the planning including events in TN, TX and AZ. The CTC in Texas will donate proceeds to the NWHA Trail Rider Incentive Program (T.R.I.P.). Donated proceeds will go to improving and increasing awards in the program.

More about ACTHA:
ACTHA is open to every breed and every riding discipline! We provide trail ride competitions throughout the United States. They are called 'Competitive Trail Challenges', or CTCs. They are not endurance rides, and they are not timed.

What is a Competitive Trail Challenge (CTC)? A Competitive Trail Challenge (CTC) is a trail ride competition that is a 6-10 mile trail ride with judged obstacles (mostly natural) along the way. Each obstacle has its own judge. It is not a timed event. You will have a ride out time (usually within 30-60 minutes) to head out on trail. You are encouraged to ride with your group, family, or friends. When you come to the obstacle & judge, you perform the obstacle 1 at a time. The trail rides usually take from 2-3 hours. After you come in from your ride, eat some lunch and be ready for the awards ceremony. Cash and prizes are given to 1st -6th place for each division. Additional contests may include Best Dog, Best Dressed Male/Female and Best Groomed Horse.
For more information about ACTHA visit their website at www.actha.us

ACTHA CTCs that are also affiliated with NWHA will earn double hours for members signed up in the T.R.I.P. program and are eligible for points in LSAP.
 

April 9, 2009

Effective April 9, 2009
To better serve the organization and all members of the National Walking Horse Association the Associate member option will no longer be available, effectively immediately. Those Associate members that are current with NWHA will be continually recognized as supporting members until their expiration date and upon that date will have the opportunity to become individual, family, youth or lifetime NWHA members. The National Walking Horse Association has many benefits to offer their membership and would ask that everyone support the promotions and welfare of the walking horse by participating in those benefits. Serving our membership is one of the priorities of the NWHA.
Thank you for your support!

April 9, 2009

Dear NWHA Members,

As you know, the team here at The Haystack Group has assumed editing and production responsibilities for the NWHA National News. We look forward to continuing the fine tradition of this publication, with some new twists in editorial and advertising.

We invite our regular contributors and those who haven’t submitted editorial in the past, to do so now to be included in the May/June/July issue. The deadline for stories AND advertising is April 27. Submissions received after April 27 will not be included in this issue.

For your convenience, we will be publishing a 2009 National News media kit on the NWHA website, which contains the editorial calendar, NEW advertising rates and technical production information. Please note the new submission guidelines and deadlines that are a result of the transition. We thank you in advance for your flexibility and understanding.

We currently are accepting articles for the following topics:

Equine health and nutrition
Parasite and insect control
NWHA news and activities
Industry news
Versatility
Youth news

One of the new editorial features is a Member Spotlight. We invite you to nominate yourself or a fellow NWHA member to be featured in upcoming issues. Please share with us in 500 words or less why you believe this individual is worthy of the spotlight. High resolution photos are encouraged.

Thank you and we look forward to providing you with the National News!

The Haystack Group Team
 

April 7, 2009

The internet is such a powerful tool for spreading the word about all that is happening at the National Walking Horse Association. Thanks to the web and to iGive.com, a program which National Walking Horse has received at total of $93.88 since January 2009 from purchases or by searching by members. Thank you! NWHA is trying to involved everyone so if you have not heard about the program this is how it works:

Join iGive.com to support National Walking Horse Association. It's free; safe and it’s easy to sign up. Join by going to: http://www.iGive.com/

The iGive Mall features over 700 trusted online retailers like Lands' End, Staples, NORDSTROM, JC Penney, eBay, Expedia.com, Barnes & Noble, QVC, & PETsMART to name just a few! You'll NEVER pay more when you reach these stores through iGive.com. and you can take advantage of the coupons and free shipping deals posted too.

National Walking Horse can also receive funds when you just need to search the internet. Use iGive.com every time you do a search, purchase or make a donation.

 

March 25, 2009

We invite you to begin using iSearchiGive.com every time you search the web. Each search means $0.01 for our cause and while the numbers may seem small at first, we all search the web hundreds of times every month, and our combined efforts can truly add up. If you're looking for a search engine that benefits our cause, consider iSearchiGive.com.

Here's what makes iSearchiGive.com so useful:

1) NWHA receives exactly $0.01 per qualified search - no hidden fees, no vague percentages, no limits;
2) Donation checks are sent every month to NWHA;
3) It's free, fast, and powered by Yahoo! Search;
4) You can keep track of your individual contributions through their parent program, www.iGive.com
5) If you shop online, up to 26% of each purchase via iGive.com also benefits our cause!
6) It's powered by iGive.com (a site that has been helping causes raise money online since 1997),
See it for yourself at: http://www.isearchigive.com/?s=28&c=44368

Vanessa Crowe,
NWHA Executive Director
4059 Iron Works Parkway, Suite 4
Lexington, KY  40511
Phone:859-252-6942
Fax: 859-252-0640

March 24, 2009

Changes are afoot at the NWHA National News!

As we say goodbye to Christie Ayers, who is stepping down as the editor after six wonderful years, we are pleased to announce that The Haystack Group has agreed to assume editing and production responsibilities of NWHA National News for at least the remainder of 2009. Christie and The Haystack Group team are working together to ensure a smooth transition. The May, June, July issue will be the first for The Haystack Group.

Ads, editorial content and photos are welcome and encouraged! Please email news@nwha.com or call (256) 568-9636 for information or to submit.

Please join me in wishing Christie and The Haystack Group much success!

 

March 19, 2009

Reserve Your Tickets Now!
2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games Ticket Deposit Program For
USDF Begins March 18!
http://www.alltechfeigames.com/

Be among the first in the world to reserve your tickets for the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games in Lexington, KY. The Ticket Deposit Program for USDF members begins March 18, 2009 at noon, EST! The offer is for "discipline series tickets", which are tickets for every performance in a specific discipline during the Games. This offer allows you to make a non-refundable deposit, approximately 50% of what is predicted for the highest priced seats, to reserve the series ticket with the balance due in the spring of 2009. There is a limit of 6 series tickets per discipline per member. Single day tickets are not part of this offer. There are a limited number of tickets available in each discipline and the offer will end when your group's allotment sells out, or at midnight EST Wednesday, March 25 2009, whichever comes first.

This ticket deposit offer to USDF members is only available online; no orders will be taken by phone or mail.

Deposit prices per series ticket are as follows:

Opening Ceremonies $75
Dressage $375
Vaulting $250
Eventing $200
Jumping $375
Driving $150
Reining $300
Endurance $25
Closing Ceremonies $40

Click here to purchase tickets.
 

March 16, 2009

MT. PLEASANT WEB SITE TO BROADCAST NATIONAL EQUINE EVENT

Mt. Pleasant, Tennessee: WalkingHorseWorld .com, a newly design web site community dedicated to the Flatshod and Naturally Gaited Tennessee Walking Horse has been given permission by the board of the National Walking Horse Association of Lexington Kentucky to live video stream via the internet The NWHA National Championship Horse Show, that comes to the Tennessee Miller Coliseum at Middle Tennessee State University in Murfreesboro, Tennessee Sept 28th to Oct 3rd 2009.

This live stream will be offered on the WalkingHorseWorld.com for all events of The National Horse Show. With 161 classes of Tennessee Walking Horses, The National Horse Show is one of the largest multi day equine events in Tennessee. Tommy Williams of Grand Champion Graffix, owners of several Tennessee Walking Horse related web sites including the WalkingHorseWorld says, "I am very proud to be given this opportunity to bring to the internet The NWHA National Championship Show to all the fans who love the Tennessee Walking Horse. I am also grateful to the NWHA Board of Directors and show committee for considering our request, and we promise to make all our broadcasts exciting for horse show fans during each performance."

The National Walking Horse Association (NWHA) located at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington Kentucky, is an alliance of people committed to preserving and fostering the natural abilities and welfare of the Walking Horse. The NWHA improves the lives of horses and people by encouraging responsibility and sportsmanship. It promotes educational and recreational activities while preserving the unique qualities of the Walking Horse.

March 13, 2009

Showing Information Updated

The traditional Amateur Cards for showing will be replaced with NWHA Show Cards beginning with the 2010 Show Season.

All exhibitors (excluding Country Pleasure Classes) will be required to have a current NWHA Show Card. NWHA members and exhibitors at NWHA shows must designate their status as Y- Youth, A- Amateur, or O-Open/non-amateur. These cards are available as part of full NWHA membership privileges.

For our non-member exhibitors there are two options available to obtain a Show Card:

• A temporary show pass will be available at a cost of $15. Temporary show passes are valid for a total of 4 consecutive days from date of purchase.

• A Season Show Pass will be available at a cost of $40, and is valid for the entire NWHA season which runs from the National Championship Show to the next year's National Championship Show.

Exhibitors must designate their status as Y-Youth, A-Amateur, or O-Open/non-amateur.

Associate memberships do not carry show card benefits.
 

February 25, 2009

FEBRUARY BOARD HIGHLIGHTS

1) Rules for Keg Shod Classes

• Beginning with the 2010 show season, new keg shoe requirements will be in effect for all keg shod classes. The rules are as follows:

Section 8.3 Shoeing Rules and Regulations
Current Rule: Currently there is no rule that describes the keg shoe
requirements.

Add section 8.3.C. (shift subsequent rules down one alpha character). Keg Shoe: The keg shoe must be a factory made, stamped steel shoe. Only flat or heeled keg shoe options are allowed. Keg shoes manufactured with grabs, clips or weighted toes are prohibited. Only clips drawn from the shoe itself are permitted. No additional material can be added or removed from the keg shoe. The keg shoe must not exceed 3/4” in width or 3/8” in thickness with the exception of the heel.

The keg shoe shall not extend past the toe and shall not extend beyond the bulb of the horse’s heel. Keg shoes shall be allowed in all divisions.

2) Members Only Access Area for Website

• A Members-Only Access area of the NWHA Website will be developed to host specific information regarding NWHA. All members will be given codes to access this site. Paula Sue Swope will be working closely with Vanessa to develop the area.

3) Support for Sacramento Horse Fair Expo

• The Northern California Walking Horse Association has requested that NWHA be a sole sponsor of their booth and exhibition at the Sacramento Horse Fair in June. Several donations will be used to assist in funding this endeavor. Special thanks to Margaret Hershberger, Gordon Lawler, Val Delana, Pam Reband, Hal Bowden, Marie Erickson and Lori Lowe for their support.

4) Expansion of High Point Categories

• Beginning with the 2010 Show Season, the High Point Categories will be expanded with the addition of Open and Amateur 2 and 3 Gait Categories for lite shod, trail pleasure, and plantation pleasure divisions, provided that they are fully sponsored.

5) Amateur Cards to be Replaced with Show Cards

• Beginning with the 2010 Show Season, the current amateur card system will be modified to encompass all exhibitors showing at NWHA affiliated shows in classes covered by NWHA rules and included in the current High Point Program (Country Pleasure Excluded). The current amateur cards will be replaced with Membership cards with the member# and a letter which specifies the member’s status as either Y- Youth, A-Amateur, or O-Open Exhibitor. Associate memberships will not have a designation as they do not offer show benefits. For those who do not desire to purchase a membership, we will offer 2 options. They may choose to buy a Temporary Show Card for $15 which covers the exhibitor for any and all NWHA events over a 4 day period beginning with the date of purchase, or a Seasonal Show Card for $40 which covers all NWHA affiliated events for the current season . Temporary and Seasonal Card holders must still designate their status as either Youth, Amateur or Open exhibitor, and this information will be maintained in the NWHA office. These cards will be valid options at all shows with the exception of the National which requires exhibitors to have a membership with full privileges to participate.

6) Mark Farrar Selected as Show Manager for 2009 National Championship Show

• Mark Farrar has been approved as the 2009 National Championship Show Manager.

7) Discover Horses Magazine Ad

• Approved payment for a 1/6 page black and white advertisement in the KY Horse Park’s Discover Horses Magazine.

February 25, 2009

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Vanessa Crowe
859-252-6942
February 24, 2009

2009 NWHA DQP TRAINING CLINIC IS A HUGE SUCCESS!

On February 14 and 15, the 2009 NWHA Designated Qualified Persons (DQP) Training Clinic was held at the Baymont Inn Conference Center and Middle Tennessee State University Horse Science Center in Murfreesboro, Tennessee. NWHA DQP’s and the United States Department of Agriculture Veterinary Medical Officers from around the nation met to discuss, listen and learn. Topics included anatomy and physiology, DQP inspection procedures, the history of soring the Horse Protection Act and NWHA DQP Reporting Guidelines.

DQP’s spent time in roundtable discussions while working through DQP simulations of various inspection scenarios. This allowed DQP apprentice candidates to work closely with established DQP inspectors and learn from their experiences in the field.

Another highlight of the weekend was the collective training on Sunday morning with the USDA Veterinarians, NWHA DQP’s and NWHA Judges. DQP Coordinator Dr. Martha Day and Judge’s Committee Chairperson Adam Hall worked together to make this session an educational opportunity for both judges and DQPs. The thermographic imaging device was demonstrated as well as proper techniques for physical inspection of horses.

February 24, 2009

2009 JUDGES CLINIC IS A HUGE SUCCESS!

On February 14 and 15, the 2009 NWHA Judges Clinic was held at the MTSU Horse Science Center in Murfreesboro, Tennessee. Judges from around the nation met to discuss, listen and learn. Topics included gait identification, rule updates, professionalism and ethics. A new judging video developed specifically for NWHA was used for the first time and received rave reviews from the audience. Judges Committee Chairman Adam Hall with assistance from Roger Hand and Dr. Dave Whitaker developed the video based on classes from the 2008 National Championship Show.

Another highlight of the weekend was the collective training on Sunday morning with the USDA and our DQPs. DQP Coordinator Dr. Martha Day worked with Chairman Adam Hall to make this session an educational opportunity for both judges and DQPs. The new thermography device was demonstrated as well as proper technique for inspection. The USDA fielded several questions from both the judges and the DQPs and were pleased with the large attendance.

The weekend concluded with a series of roundtable discussions on topics including division standards and gaits, procedures and expectations for judging classes, standard operating procedures for judges, versatility issues and an open discussion of general issues and concerns.
 

February 24, 2009

USDA ANNOUNCES NEW DQP INSPECTION GUIDELINES

As part of its ongoing commitment to enforcing the Horse Protection Act, the USDA has issued new inspection requirements for the 2009 show season. These new guidelines are effective immediately as part of the inspection process of HPR Sec 11.1.

According to the USDA, all horses must be inspected without tack during both pre- and post- show inspections. No saddles or breast collars will be allowed during inspections. Horses must be led to the inspection area wearing only a halter or bridle. In addition, a horse’s shoes may be pulled and hoof testers may be used. If a follow-up testing is needed, thermography will be utilized.

In addition to pre- and post-class inspection, a DQP has the right to inspect horses anywhere on the show grounds.

While these measures will add to the time required to navigate the DQP inspection process and will clearly require additional logistical support from show managers and patience from exhibitors, NWHA supports the USDA's position. "As an organization that promotes the well being and soundness of the horse, NWHA offers its support of this initiative and will continue to work diligently to ensure that the Walking Horse remains a breed of merit," says Vanessa Crowe, executive director, National Walking Horse Association.
 

February 2, 2009

NWHA at the Illinois Horse Fair

The National Walking Horse Association will be represented at the 20th Annual Illinois Horse Fair in Springfield, IL, from March 6 – 8. This event is the ice breaker for the equine community in this area and is filled with an exciting schedule of clinicians, breed demos and commercial vendors. Over 10,000 horse enthusiasts will attend this great three day event. The Horse Fair will be held at the spacious Illinois State Fairgrounds and is the largest non-racing equine gathering in the state.

Members or affiliations that are interested in supporting the NWHA booth at this event may send $75.00 to NWHA 4059 Iron Works Parkway, Suite 4, Lexington, KY 40511. The NWHA booth will provide free of charge to the visiting public your provided material of brochures, business cards, farm/stable/training/clinic/event flyers and other promotional materials concerning your farm, training facility, horse show, clinic or breeding stallion. This promotion is available to you as a supporting member or affiliation during this well established Springfield, IL Horse Fair. Please ship your promotional material to:

Colette Pfender
4001 Kim Kelly Dr.
St. Charles, MO 63304

If you would like to volunteer your assistance at the NWHA booth in providing information and literature about our wonderful breed please contact Colette Pfender at 636-922-3619 or e-mail lindegrau@yahoo.com  Everyone’s help is welcome!

To see all the exciting events and clinicians scheduled during the 20th Annual Illinois Horse Fair in Springfield, IL, from March 6 – 8. 2009 visit www.horsemenscouncil.org

Just another great reason to be part of the success of the National Walking Horse Association that is always working for you!
 

January 27, 2009

Christie Ayers Announces Resignation

Christie Ayers, NWHA News editor, has notified the Board of Directors of her intent to resign effective after the publication of the May issue of the NWHA News. Christie explained that she needs more time to work on her educational goal of becoming a special needs teacher. “I have enjoyed working with NWHA’s Board of Directors and members through the years. It has been a pleasure to serve as the editor of the National News,” Christie stated.

“Christie’s vision of publishing a first-class magazine came to fulfillment during her tenure with NWHA. We are proud of her accomplishments and wish her well in her educational pursuits,” stated NWHA President Lori Snyder-Lowe.

Executive Director Vanessa Crowe and the NWHA News Task Force are in the process of reviewing applications and interviewing for the position. If any of our NWHA members are interested or if they know of anyone who is interested in this position, please send a resume to the NWHA Office by February 1, 2009.
 

January 23, 2009

Read the January Board highlights.

January 22, 2009

The 2009 National Show page has been updated with stall and RV information!

January 20, 2009

The 2009 National Showbill has been approved and is ready for download.
Please regularly check the National Show page for new information.

January 15, 2009

NWHA Membership Brings MORE Advantages!

NWHA Members have the opportunity to purchase tickets for the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games early and at half price!

The Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games will be held at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, KY with opening ceremonies beginning September 25, 2010 and closing ceremonies October 10, 2010. The Games will host the world championships of the eight equestrian disciplines recognized by the Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI), which are held every four years. The Games have never been held outside of Europe; nor have all eight disciplines competed at a single site— both firsts that will be achieved at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, KY.

How does this affect NWHA members? The World Games 2010 Foundation is offering an online ticket deposit program to all NWHA members for a limited time period in the spring of 2009. The ticket deposit program would allow NWHA members to reserve Series Tickets for the eight disciplines to be contested at the 2010 Games. The deposit prices are approximately one-half of the estimated final ticket prices, with the final balance to be paid before the general public ticket sales September 25, 2009.

This deposit program is an online only program and is a special offer to NWHA members who are members of NWHA as of January 31, 2009 and have a valid email address. So, don’t miss this great opportunity as an NWHA member, just one more great reason to become a member of the National Walking Horse Association, the association that promotes and preserves the naturally gaited walking horse!

Watch for more information on the www.nwha.com web site on how to reserve your 2010 World Equestrian Games tickets!

Vanessa Crowe
NWHA Executive Director

January 11, 2009

NWHA ELECTION TASK FORCE RESULTS

After several months of research, the Election Task Force has concluded its work. The task force found that the election procedure currently used by NWHA and stated in the NWHA Bylaws is the best approach to electing representatives. Respondents to the survey were in support of the current procedure by a margin of 2 to 1. In addition, all research indicated that successful 501C3 organizations utilized some format of election of board of directors that was exactly the same or similar to that of NWHA. The Election Task Force concluded that NWHA’s guidelines follow the leading practices within the non-profit organization world and they recommend no change to current operating procedures.
 

January 11, 2009

DECEMBER BOARD HIGHLIGHTS
December 3, 2008


1) Judges/Judges Committee SOPs

The Board approved a revised version of the Judges/Judges Committee Standard Operating Procedures. The new SOPs will be shared with the judges at the annual clinic which is being held in Murfreesboro, TN on February 14 and 15, 2009.

2) High Point Committee Recommendation

The Board approved the sale of high point trophies to winners. The cost will be $125 for the large, championship trophies and $50 for the smaller, reserve trophies. A deadline of February 1 was set for ordering the replacement trophies.

3) Informational Items

• Judges/DQP Clinics - February 14, 15, 2009

• 2009 NWHA Horse for the KY Horse Park is Piper’s Mountain Trapper -
  Thank you to owners Neil and Barbara Earl and trainer, Linda Richwine!!

January 10, 2009

NOVEMBER BOARD HIGHLIGHTS

1) Magazine Distribution Dates

The Board approved five issues of the National News for 2009. The distribution and deadline dates are:

January/February Issue - January 6
March/April Issue - March 1
May/June Issue - May 1
August/September Issue - July 1
October/November December Issue - October 15

2) Annual Retreat

The Board scheduled the Annual Board Retreat for January 9, 10, 11 at the Cincinnati Airport Marriott.

3) Monthly Board Meetings

The Board approved monthly Board Meetings to be held the second Wednesday of each month beginning February 2009.

4) Code of Conduct

The Board approved the Board Member Code of Conduct.

5) Election Process Survey

The Board approved the placement of the Election Task Force’s Election Process Survey on the website.

6) Multiple Point Shows

The Board approved the National Championship Show to offer triple points; that no show can offer more than the National Championship Show; and that the Central and Western Regions be allowed up to three judges using a three-point system but that these multiple point shows do not qualify as Regional Shows and that the multiple point shows are limited to three shows at three separate locations per show season per state.

7) DQP Business

The Board approved the change of page 58 in the Rulebook, Letter F, from “actual hearing shall be held at Lexington, KY” to “actual hearing shall be held at a location deemed appropriate by the president.”

The Board approved the reinstatement of the rule that was inadvertently left out of the rulebook regarding an appealed ticket that has been upheld at a hearing, the expenses associated with the hearing shall be the responsibility of the complainant. The reinstatement would take place for tickets written on or after January 1, 2009.

The Board approved the increase in DQP fees from $175 per day to $200 per day to take effect on January 1, 2009.
 

January 6, 2009

December 31, 2008

Reining Championships Class Correction-------

At the 2008 NWHA National Championship Horse Show, there was a tie for the Reining Championship. The tie was broken by the standard procedure that was in place at the time. The tie procedure awarded Melissa Davidson and Roger Packard as co-Reining Champions for this class. We would like to correct the error in the announcement of the 2008 NWHA National Reining Championship; NWHA would like to extend congratulations to Melissa and Roger.
 

December 18, 2008

Dear NWHA Members,

As you likely know, the Executive Board has been considering candidates to assume the position of Executive Director. After thoughtful consideration, it is with great pleasure that I announce the appointment of Vanessa D. Crowe as our new executive director.

With more than 35 years of marketing and equine industry experience, Vanessa brings extensive knowledge and skills that will contribute to NWHA’s growth. I am confident that her fresh approach will further establish NWHA as the leading organization dedicated to naturally gaited Walking Horses.

In her most recent position as executive director of United Mountain Horse, Inc., she oversaw a significant increase in membership. During that seven-year-tenure, Vanessa managed shows, judging and DQP programs and developed and integrated programs, publications, national and regional promotions and educational venues for the organization.

An accomplished equestrian, Vanessa has spent her life around Walking Horses and shares NWHA’s values. She currently resides in Stanton Kentucky with her husband of 30 years, with whom she has two children.

Vanessa is looking forward to assuming her responsibilities on January 2, 2009 and has already begun a smooth transition process with Don Vizi and members of the Board.

Please join us in welcoming Vanessa to NWHA!

Warm Regards,

Lori Snyder-Lowe
President, National Walking Horse Association
 

December 13, 2008

December 12, 2008

Until January 31st, John Deere and MemberPerks have teamed up to offer members of NWHA the opportunity to stop in at any John Deere dealership and receive a free John Deere cap simply by receiving a quote on a new piece of John Deere equipment. Since NWHA is an affiliate of the USEF, your members can take advantage of the MemberPerks Equine Discount Program. The program offers full time equine operations as much as 23% off list price on new John Deere equipment. For those involved with horses as a hobby, John Deere and MemberPerks have created a partner coupon program that offers great value on a wide range of John Deere equipment. Both programs offer your members a terrific way to save.

Please print the letter and coupon, present it to the dealership, receive a quote and get a great John Deere cap and a fantastic deal on John Deere equipment.

MemberPerks also offers a wide range of great discounts at Office Depot, Sherwin Williams, UPS, Moxie Equestrian, Toshiba Direct, Equine Travel Advantage, Hertz, Choice Hotels, Office Max Impress, FarmVet.com and Equisure.

Sincerely,
James Lawson, USEF MemberPerks

 

December 12, 2008

The NWHA 2008 National Show video produced by The Haystack Group is loaded and running on YouTube. If you search for 'NWHA', you'll find it. Or use this link http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gPPT2u21iI8 We encourage our members to share it with anyone they know who might be interested in learning more about naturally gaited walking horses and NWHA in particular.

Bonnie Ulman
President
The Haystack Group
6285 Barfield Road
Suite 100
Atlanta, GA 30328
770.953.8818
bonnie@haystackgroup.com
www.haystackgroup.com
 

December 1, 2008

The 2009 Judges Clinic and DQPs Clinic will be held in conjunction with each other on Saturday, February 14 and Sunday, February 15 in Murfreesboro, Tennessee. The host hotel is the Baymont Inn at a special rate of $69.00 per night. Please remember to mention that you are with NWHA when making your reservations. On Saturday, the DQP clinic will be held at the Baymont Inn and on Sunday it will be held at the MTSU Miller Coliseum. The Judges Clinic will be held at the MTSU Miller Coliseum on both days.
 

November 24, 2008

REGIONAL WINNERS GET CLASSES AT NWHA NATIONAL

In 2008, the Horse Show Development Committee had a laundry list of goals and tasks to tackle. One of these was a request by the Board of Directors to develop a way to tie Regional Shows in to the National for 2009 and beyond.

After much brainstorming and refining, the HSD came back to the BOD with the suggestion to add Regional Championship classes at the National. These classes will be open to horses that placed first through third in any 2 gait or 3 gait Championship Class at any Regional Show in 2009. The offerings for 2009 will be 4 classes, one 2 gait class for each division to include Country Pleasure, Trail Pleasure, Lite Shod and Plantation Pleasure. The winner of each of these classes will hold the title of Regional Grand Champion.

The Board of Directors approved this plan. The plan and the other suggestions from the Horse Show Development Committee were sent to the National Horse Show Committee for scheduling. Other ideas that were submitted included a Parade of Regional Champions and special designations on stalls for Regional Champions.

The Horse Show Development Committee and the Board of Directors would like to encourage all NWHA members to compete at one or all of the eight Regional shows for 2009.
 

November 24, 2008

NWHA Adds High Point Archives to Website!

Thanks to the collaboration of Debbie Nuding, Paula Sue Swope and Rick
Chovan, NWHA has been able to add some of the "history" of our high point
awards to our website. High Point Award winners in the first three places
since 1999 have been added to the NWHA Website in a "High Point Archives"
page. Members will find interesting data about the historical perspective
of our organization and its horses.

"We want to thank Debbie, Paula, and Rick for their time and effort in
putting these archives together. We also want to thank Tom Gossard for
his work to secure the high point award information for the two missing
years for us. Without these hard working, dedicated members, these
archives would not have been possible," stated NWHA President Lori
Snyder-Lowe.

Check out the High Point Archives here.
 

November 18, 2008

NWHA Annual Meeting a Huge Success!
11-18-08

November 17, 2008

Election Task Force Membership Survey

November 11, 2008

2008 NATIONAL WALKING HORSE ANNUAL MEETING AGENDA
NOVEMBER 14-16, 2008
 

November 10, 2008

Announcement of the resignation of Don Vizi
as NWHA Executive Director

The Executive Committee has regretfully accepted the resignation of Don Vizi from the position of Executive Director of the National Walking Horse Association, effective January 1, 2009. We appreciate Don's excellent service to our association as he has been instrumental in helping to further our reputation as a humane walking horse association in both the KY Horse Park and the equine industry as a whole. We wish Don success in his new endeavor with the Rocky Mountain Horse Association.
The Executive Committee of NWHA has initiated a search for an Executive Director.
 

November 4, 2008

NWHA BOARD MEETING AGENDA
Friday, November 14, 2008, 4:00 PM EST